Name: The Plant Company
Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
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best native trees to plant

When looking for the best native trees to plant in New Zealand, it's important to consider the unique characteristics and benefits of our local flora. Native trees are perfectly adapted to our climate and soils, supporting local biodiversity and bringing year-round beauty to your garden or landscape. Whether you're wanting to create a shady retreat, attract native birds, or restore a patch of bush, choosing the best native trees to plant ensures success and sustainability.

Prumnopitys taxifolia (Matai)

Prumnopitys taxifolia, commonly known as Matai or Black Pine, is a stately, NZ native tree with quite different juvenile and adult forms. The juvenile form has orange branches held with a tangled appearance and silver-coloured foliage. The tree eventually develops dense, yellow-green foliage and distinctive hammer mark patterns on the trunk.

Buy Prumnopitys taxifolia (Matai)

From $309.51

Suited to regions: All regions

Plant type: Trees

Height: 25.00 m

Spread: 6.00 m

Tolerances: Hardy

Garden uses: Parks, Ponds, Screening, Specimen

Garden styles: Alpine, Forestry, Native

Sophora chathamica

Sophora chathamica (Coastal Kōwhai) is a stunning New Zealand native tree known for its masses of bright yellow flowers that appear in early spring. This coastal kōwhai is fast growing, hardy, and highly attractive to native birds such as tūī and kererū.

Buy Sophora chathamica

From $323.65

Suited to regions: All regions

Plant type: Trees

Height: 10.00 m

Spread: 4.00 m

Flowering time: Spring

Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy, Wind

Garden uses: Parks, Screening, Specimen

Garden styles: Alpine, Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Modern, Native

Why Choose Native Trees for Your Garden?

Native trees offer a host of advantages for Kiwi gardeners. They're hardy, generally low-maintenance, and act as vital food sources for native birds, insects, and other wildlife. Planting natives also helps preserve New Zealand's unique natural heritage and can add value to your property with lush foliage and distinctive shapes.

Top Picks for the Best Native Trees to Plant

If you're searching for the best native trees to plant, consider these reliable and beautiful choices:

1. Rimu (Dacrydium cupressinum)

The Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu Tree) is a classic New Zealand native, renowned for its elegant weeping foliage and stately form. Rimu grows slowly but can eventually reach impressive heights, making it a stunning centrepiece for large gardens or restoration projects. Rimu provides year-round interest and supports native birdlife, especially kererū, which feast on its fruit.

2. Celery Pine (Phyllocladus trichomanoides)

Another excellent choice is the Phyllocladus trichomanoides (Celery Pine). Known for its distinctive, celery-like leaves, this tree adds texture and greenery to any space. Celery pine is well-suited for wetter areas and provides excellent shelter in native plantings or mixed borders.

3. Toon Tree (Cedrela sinensis Flamingo)

While not strictly a Kiwi native, the Cedrela sinensis Flamingo (Toon Tree) is popular for gardens aiming to feature exotic flair alongside native species. Its pink spring foliage and upright habit complement native plantings beautifully while providing seasonal interest.

4. Rowan (Sorbus aucuparia Scarlet King)

If you're after striking berry colour, the Sorbus aucuparia Scarlet King (Rowan Tree NZ) fits the bill. While more commonly associated with European landscapes, this robust tree has found its place in Kiwi gardens, attracting birds with its scarlet fruits and fitting well among native plantings.

5. Sequoia gigantea

For a majestic statement, consider the Sequoiadendron giganteum (Sequoia gigantea Tree). Though originally from the other side of the world, Sequoias thrive in parts of New Zealand and provide a dramatic addition to any landscape, pairing surprisingly well with local species.

Choose the Best Native Trees to Plant for Your Needs

Selecting the best native trees to plant depends on your site's conditions, the look you want to achieve, and the wildlife you’d like to attract. Whether you want tall shade providers, shelterbelt heroes, or striking specimens for garden interest, choosing natives supports both your garden and the wider environment. Explore our selection of native and companion trees to find the perfect options for your next planting project.

Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

best native trees to plant

Prumnopitys taxifolia (Matai)

Sophora chathamica

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Why Choose Native Trees for Your Garden?